How to Market Your STR to Remote Workers
The rise of remote work has created a growing demand for short-term rentals (STRs) that cater to remote workers. These guests seek accommodations that combine comfort, functionality, and productivity. By tailoring your property to this niche market and implementing targeted marketing strategies, you can attract remote workers and maintain high occupancy rates year-round. This article provides actionable tips to position your STR as the ideal remote work retreat.
Why Market to Remote Workers?
1. Expands Your Guest Base
Remote workers are a growing demographic looking for flexible, long-term stays.
2. Increases Occupancy During Off-Peak Seasons
Many remote workers travel outside of traditional vacation periods.
3. Generates Stable Revenue
Longer stays reduce turnover costs and ensure consistent income.
4. Differentiates Your STR
Catering to remote workers sets your property apart in a competitive market.
How to Make Your STR Remote-Work Friendly
1. Offer a Dedicated Workspace
A well-equipped workspace is essential for remote workers.
What to Include:
A comfortable desk and ergonomic chair.
Sufficient lighting, ideally natural light supplemented with adjustable desk lamps.
Power strips and accessible outlets for charging devices.
Pro Tip:
Cross-link to “How to Choose the Best STR Amenities to Attract More Guests” for more ideas on enhancing your property.
2. Provide Reliable High-Speed Wi-Fi
Fast and reliable internet is a non-negotiable for remote workers.
How to Optimize Wi-Fi:
Invest in high-speed internet with at least 100 Mbps download speed.
Conduct regular speed tests and provide instructions for troubleshooting.
Include the Wi-Fi password in pre-arrival emails and display it prominently in the workspace.
Pro Tip:
Mention your Wi-Fi speed in your listing to attract tech-savvy guests.
3. Include Work-Enhancing Amenities
Small details can make a big difference for remote workers.
Examples of Amenities:
Noise-canceling headphones or a white noise machine.
Printers or scanners for professional tasks.
Coffee makers and a variety of teas for productive breaks.
Pro Tip:
Create a “remote work package” with all essentials included for longer stays.
Marketing Your STR to Remote Workers
1. Highlight Remote-Work Features in Your Listing
Emphasize what makes your property ideal for remote workers.
What to Highlight:
Dedicated workspace with photos.
High-speed Wi-Fi with tested speeds mentioned.
Nearby amenities like cafes, coworking spaces, or parks for breaks.
Pro Tip:
Use keywords like “remote work retreat” or “perfect for digital nomads” in your listing title.
2. Target Remote-Work Platforms
Promote your STR on platforms popular with remote workers.
Platforms to Consider:
Workations.co: Specializes in properties designed for remote work.
Flatio: Targets medium- to long-term stays for remote workers.
Nomad Stays: Focuses on digital nomads looking for work-friendly accommodations.
Pro Tip:
Include links to your listings on these platforms in your social media and email campaigns.
3. Use Social Media Marketing
Social media is a powerful tool for reaching remote workers.
What to Post:
Photos and videos showcasing your workspace and amenities.
Testimonials from remote workers who’ve stayed at your property.
Tips for productive remote work paired with visuals of your STR.
Pro Tip:
Use hashtags like #RemoteWorkTravel, #DigitalNomadLife, or #[CityNameWorkcation].
4. Offer Discounts for Longer Stays
Remote workers often seek cost-effective options for extended stays.
How to Structure Discounts:
Weekly discounts (e.g., 10% off for stays of 7+ days).
Monthly discounts (e.g., 25% off for stays of 28+ days).
Pro Tip:
Highlight these discounts prominently in your listing and marketing materials.
5. Promote Seasonal Workcation Packages
Create seasonal promotions to attract remote workers year-round.
Examples of Packages:
Winter Workcation: Include cozy amenities like fireplaces, blankets, and hot cocoa kits.
Summer Workcation: Offer outdoor workspaces with scenic views or shaded patios.
Pro Tip:
Tailor your packages to local seasonal attractions and activities.
Enhancing the Experience for Remote Workers
1. Provide Local Recommendations
Help remote workers integrate into the community.
What to Include:
Nearby coworking spaces or cafes with Wi-Fi.
Fitness centers or yoga studios for breaks.
Grocery stores, pharmacies, and other essentials.
Pro Tip:
Create a digital welcome guide with clickable links to these recommendations.
2. Ensure Flexibility with Check-In/Check-Out
Remote workers often travel with unpredictable schedules.
How to Add Flexibility:
Offer early check-in or late check-out options.
Provide self-check-in systems like smart locks or lockboxes.
Pro Tip:
Use automation tools to manage flexible scheduling efficiently.
3. Offer Personalized Support
Remote workers value responsive and helpful hosts.
Examples of Personalized Support:
Address specific requests, like extra monitors or keyboard stands.
Provide troubleshooting assistance for Wi-Fi or workspace equipment.
Pro Tip:
Cross-link to “How to Build Strong Guest Relationships for STR Success” for tips on fostering loyalty.
Case Studies: Successful STRs for Remote Workers
1. Urban Loft in Austin, Texas
Strategy: Highlighted proximity to coworking spaces and offered ergonomic office setups.
Result: Increased bookings from remote workers by 40%.
2. Beach House in Hawaii
Strategy: Promoted a beachfront workspace with high-speed internet and relaxation amenities.
Result: Achieved 85% occupancy during off-peak months.
3. Mountain Cabin in Colorado
Strategy: Marketed as a retreat for remote workers seeking outdoor adventures and tranquility.
Result: Secured multiple month-long bookings from digital nomads.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Ignoring Workspace Quality
A poorly equipped workspace discourages remote workers.
Solution: Invest in ergonomic and functional furniture.
Neglecting Internet Speed
Slow or unreliable Wi-Fi frustrates remote workers.
Solution: Test your internet regularly and upgrade if needed.
Failing to Promote Remote-Work Features
Overlooking this niche leaves potential bookings untapped.
Solution: Highlight work-friendly amenities in your marketing materials.
Conclusion
Marketing your STR to remote workers is a strategic way to increase bookings and revenue in today’s flexible work environment. By offering dedicated workspaces, reliable Wi-Fi, and tailored amenities, you can attract this growing demographic and position your property as a go-to destination for work and leisure. With thoughtful planning and targeted marketing, your STR can thrive in the remote work era.
